The Kroger Co. announced on August 31, 2026, that it has appointed Mark Ibbotson, 63, as Executive Vice President and Chief Store Operations Officer, effective September 14, 2026.
According to the company’s Form 8-K filing, Mr. Ibbotson joins Kroger from a role as a Senior Advisor at McKinsey & Company, where he has served for the last four years. Prior to his tenure at McKinsey, he spent 16 years at Walmart U.S. and its former U.K. subsidiary Asda, holding roles such as Executive Vice President of Central Operations and Realty and Senior Vice President of Innovation.
In his new role, Mr. Ibbotson will oversee store operations. The filing details his compensation package, which includes an annual base salary of $1,000,000. He is eligible for an annual incentive bonus equal to 110% of his base salary for 2026.
Additionally, Mr. Ibbotson will receive equity awards totaling $3.5 million in restricted shares and performance units, granted in December 2026. These include a one-time grant of $1.25 million in restricted shares vesting over three years, a $1.25 million grant of performance unit equity awards under the 2026-2028 long-term incentive plan, and a one-time grant of $1 million in restricted shares vesting over two years.
The filing also notes that Mr. Ibbotson will participate in Kroger’s standard executive relocation program, including temporary housing for 90 days. There are no family relationships or special arrangements associated with his appointment.
